Yesterday we went to the Women’s March in St Paul. I marched with my mom, Aine and my friend Mary. I thought I’d be marching with 20,000 kindred spirits – turns out 100,000 people marched!

I was reminded that patience is a big part of demonstrating – just as patience is going to be a part of change we need and holding ground we can’t afford to lose.

We waited – in sloppy, slushy, slippery muck of the St Paul College backfield for more than an hour before we began marching. But we cheered, we read signs, someone handed out donuts, another had chocolate kisses. The crowd was predominately women but lots a colors, a few languages and all ages – from strollers to walkers.

It was a march of solidarity. An important reminder that we stand together against predatory people in power – if we don’t remind ourselves we run the risk that some may imitate predatory, bullying actions and other may be afraid.

The march was the first step to build a momentum to make sure everyone can survive and thrive – we need to be vigilant and act for what we believe is right. But it was a really powerful first step!